Shapiro signs executive order restricting data center development
Gov. Josh Shapiro (D-PA) signed an executive order Tuesday to remove current and future data centers from Pennsylvania’s fast-track permitting program, which he says has received more than 100 data center proposals from technology companies.
TL;DR
- Governor Josh Shapiro removed current and future data centers from Pennsylvania's fast-track permitting program via executive order.
- The order addresses concerns over over 100 speculative data center proposals received by the state.
- Shapiro accused tech companies of aggressive tactics and disregarding local concerns.
- New requirements focus on energy affordability for residents, developer transparency, and environmental risk reduction.
- The executive action was taken after legislative efforts to pass similar standards failed in the state Senate.
- Shapiro criticized Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman for not bringing the proposal to a vote.
- The governor stated the order aims to stop predatory developers and bad proposals.
- Shapiro is not entirely opposed to data centers, citing past projects that generated jobs and investment.
- The move aligns with growing national protests against data centers due to rising electricity costs and environmental issues.